The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution | Unbiased Skincare Efficacy Review by AI

Review

Does The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution Work?

According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution has to offer:

A bit of moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 1.5 out of 10.

Key Benefits of The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

These are the key benefits you can expect from using The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution:

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is slightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 1.5 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a moderate humectancy of 3.0 out of 10, entirely due to the high content of Saccharide Isomerate (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

Tip: Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:

Pros:

Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine

Cons:

Anti-Seborrheic
Fragrance
Preservative
Formula helpers

Other

Est. % The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more The Estimated % is our algorithm-based assumption about an ingredient's concentration in a formula. Learn more	Ingredient	Origin	Functions
85	Water The most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients. Water The most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.	Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water.	Formula helper Solvent – a liquid that dissolves other ingredients. Formula helper Solvent – a liquid that dissolves other ingredients.
3	Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin. Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid).
2.9	Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine		Formula helper Antistatic – reduces electric charge buildup. Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Formula helper Antistatic – reduces electric charge buildup. Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together.
2 Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website. Verified concentration of an ingredient as indicated on its package, in the ingredient list, or on the official website.	Salicylic Acid This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores. Salicylic Acid This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Anti-Seborrheic, Anti-seborrheic ingredients help to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Anti-Seborrheic, Anti-seborrheic ingredients help to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Formula helper Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. Formula helper Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable.
1.9	Hydroxyethylcellulose A naturally-derived thickener that can form clear gel textures without the slimy feeling, unlike some other natural gel-formers. Hydroxyethylcellulose A naturally-derived thickener that can form clear gel textures without the slimy feeling, unlike some other natural gel-formers.	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Formula helper Binding – bonds ingredients together. Emulsion stabilizing – increases the stability of a formula. Film-forming – creates a film to increase wear time. Light stabilizing – absorbs UV light to protect ingredients. Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product. Formula helper Binding – bonds ingredients together. Emulsion stabilizing – increases the stability of a formula. Film-forming – creates a film to increase wear time. Light stabilizing – absorbs UV light to protect ingredients. Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product.
1.5	Polysorbate 20 A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions. Polysorbate 20 A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Solubilizing – helps ingredients dissolve. Formula helper Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Solubilizing – helps ingredients dissolve.
1.3	Citric Acid A gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent. Citric Acid A gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Formula helper Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. Formula helper Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
1	Sodium Citrate A salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward. Sodium Citrate A salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Formula helper Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. Formula helper Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
0.3	Sodium Hydroxide An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin. Sodium Hydroxide An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Formula helper Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. Formula helper Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
0.3	Phenoxyethanol The most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless. Phenoxyethanol The most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product.
0.3	Chlorphenesin A preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi. Chlorphenesin A preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.	Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product.

Water

Function:

Origin:

Saccharide Isomerate

Function:

Origin:

2.9

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine

Function:

Origin:

Salicylic Acid

Function:

Origin:

1.9

Hydroxyethylcellulose

Function:

Origin:

1.5

Polysorbate 20

Function:

Origin:

1.3

Citric Acid

Function:

Origin:

Sodium Citrate

Function:

Origin:

0.3

Sodium Hydroxide

Function:

Origin:

0.3

Phenoxyethanol

Function:

Origin:

0.3

Chlorphenesin

Function:

Origin:

Ratings

Saccharide Isomerate

Benchmark

None

Benchmark

Moisturizing rating

1.5

Ingredient		Est. %	Benchmark Sciense based points to which we compare all humectants and all occlusives in a product to calculate its Humectancy and Occlusivity. Sciense based points to which we compare all humectants and all occlusives in a product to calculate its Humectancy and Occlusivity.	Raiting
Humectancy	All humectants	3	10	3.0
	Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin. Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.	3
Occlusivity	All occlusives	0.0	20	0.0
	None
Moisturizing rating				1.5

Ingredient	Est. %	Benchmark According to various studies, a formula made up of 10% humectants will significantly increase skin hydration. Some studies also suggest that any further icrease in the consentration of humectants does not translate inty any more hydration and may even be dehydrating. To achieve maximum Humectancy, the product should have humectants with a total score of 10 and more. According to various studies, a formula made up of 10% humectants will significantly increase skin hydration. Some studies also suggest that any further icrease in the consentration of humectants does not translate inty any more hydration and may even be dehydrating. To achieve maximum Humectancy, the product should have humectants with a total score of 10 and more.	Humectancy
Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin. Saccharide Isomerate A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.	3
All humectants	3	10	3

Saccharide Isomerate

Benchmark

Ingredient	Est. %	Benchmark The most occlusive product possible is 100% petrolatum (hello Vaseline Jelly). According to studies, hovewer, even 10% petrolatum can achieve almost the same mosturizing effect. The occlusive properties of petrolatum are at least twice as superior as other occlusive ingredients. This is why, in order to match the moisturizing efficacy of 10% petrolatum, a product needs to contain at least 20% of other occlusives. Our benchmark for maximum Occlusivity is 20 (and the petrolatum score is always doubled). The most occlusive product possible is 100% petrolatum (hello Vaseline Jelly). According to studies, hovewer, even 10% petrolatum can achieve almost the same mosturizing effect. The occlusive properties of petrolatum are at least twice as superior as other occlusive ingredients. This is why, in order to match the moisturizing efficacy of 10% petrolatum, a product needs to contain at least 20% of other occlusives. Our benchmark for maximum Occlusivity is 20 (and the petrolatum score is always doubled).	Occlusivity
None
All occlusives	0.0	20	0.0

None

Benchmark

Ingredient	Ingredient anti-wrinkle power Shows on a scale of 0-10 how effective an ingredient is at reducing wrinkles. Both the Reported Efficacy of the ingredient and the Strength of Evidence are taken into account. Shows on a scale of 0-10 how effective an ingredient is at reducing wrinkles. Both the Reported Efficacy of the ingredient and the Strength of Evidence are taken into account.	when present at, %	in this formula est. %	Rating
None
Total				0

None

Anti-wrinkle rating

Ingredient	Est. %	Benchmark It differs from one antioxidant ingredient to another, but, on average, the research suggests that topically applied antioxidants are effective in consentrations of 3% or above. Any product with a total antioxidant score of 3 or more is considered to be reach in antioxidants. It differs from one antioxidant ingredient to another, but, on average, the research suggests that topically applied antioxidants are effective in consentrations of 3% or above. Any product with a total antioxidant score of 3 or more is considered to be reach in antioxidants.	Rich in Antioxidants
None
All antioxidants	0	3	No

None

Benchmark

Ingredient	Est. %	Benchmark The effective concentration of soothing ingredients varies, but we consider a product rich in soothing ingredients if their estimated concentration is equal to or higher than 5%. The effective concentration of soothing ingredients varies, but we consider a product rich in soothing ingredients if their estimated concentration is equal to or higher than 5%.	Rich in Soothing
Salicylic Acid This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores. Salicylic Acid This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.	2
All soothing	2	5	No

Salicylic Acid

Benchmark

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %	85
Function	Solvent Solvent – a liquid that dissolves other ingredients. Solvent Solvent – a liquid that dissolves other ingredients.
Origin	Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water. Naturally occurring These are ingredients initially present in nature, such as elements (Zinc, Gold, or Silver), minerals, or water.

The most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.

Saccharide Isomerate
Est. %	3
Function	Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid). Moisturizing (Humectant) Humectants are moisturizing ingredients that draw moisture to the skin, either from deeper layers or from the environment (when it's humid).
Origin	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

A naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine
Est. %	2.9
Function	Antistatic, Antistatic – reduces electric charge buildup. Antistatic, Antistatic – reduces electric charge buildup. Emulsifying Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Emulsifying Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together.
Origin

Salicylic Acid
Est. %	2
Function	Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Anti-Acne, Anti-acne agents treat acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Soothing, Soothing ingredients reduce the signs of sensitivity in irritated and inflamed skin. This includes anti-inflammatory ingredients, anti-itch agents, and topical analgesics. Anti-Seborrheic, Anti-seborrheic ingredients help to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Anti-Seborrheic, Anti-seborrheic ingredients help to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative, Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Denaturant Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. Denaturant Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable.
Origin	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.

Hydroxyethylcellulose
Est. %	1.9
Function	Binding, Binding – bonds ingredients together. Binding, Binding – bonds ingredients together. Emulsion Stabilizing, Emulsion stabilizing – increases the stability of a formula. Emulsion Stabilizing, Emulsion stabilizing – increases the stability of a formula. Film-Forming, Film-forming – creates a film to increase wear time. Film-Forming, Film-forming – creates a film to increase wear time. Light Stabilizing, Light stabilizing – absorbs UV light to protect ingredients. Light Stabilizing, Light stabilizing – absorbs UV light to protect ingredients. Viscosity Controlling Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product. Viscosity Controlling Viscosity controlling – changes the thickness of a product.
Origin	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

A naturally-derived thickener that can form clear gel textures without the slimy feeling, unlike some other natural gel-formers.

Polysorbate 20
Est. %	1.5
Function	Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Emulsifying, Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Emulsifying, Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together. Solubilizing Solubilizing – helps ingredients dissolve. Solubilizing Solubilizing – helps ingredients dissolve.
Origin	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.

Citric Acid
Est. %	1.3
Function	Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Exfoliant, Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin via acid-based chemical reactions (e.g., AHA or BHA). Chelating, Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. Chelating, Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
Origin	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

A gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.

Sodium Citrate
Est. %	1
Function	Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Fragrance, Fragrance ingredients add scent to a product or hide ('mask') the undesired aroma of other ingredients. Chelating, Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. Chelating, Chelating – deactivates harmful heavy metal ions. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
Origin	Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Botanical, Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

A salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.

Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %	0.3
Function	Denaturant, Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. Denaturant, Denaturant – turns alcohol undrinkable. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula. pH Adjuster pH adjuster – alters the pH level of a formula.
Origin	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %	0.3
Function	Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product.
Origin	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.

The most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.

Chlorphenesin
Est. %	0.3
Function	Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Antimicrobial, Antimicrobials prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product. Preservative Preservatives prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a product.
Origin	Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure. Synthetic All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.